Hyderabad police launch Operation Muskaan-XII to rescue child labourers

The women safety wing of the state police has launched 'Operation Muskaan-XII' in Hyderabad, initiating a month-long campaign to rescue child and bonded labourers, trace missing children, and ensure their rehabilitation. The drive, which runs from Wednesday until July 31, was detailed by Charu Sinha, Director-General of Police for the women safety wing, during a planning meeting on Tuesday.

The meeting was convened to launch the official poster for the operation and to issue directions for finalising the strategy and implementation framework of the month-long campaign. The event was attended by representatives from the police department, various stakeholders, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

During the launch, DGP Charu Sinha highlighted the critical importance of a coordinated, multi-departmental effort to ensure the safety and recovery of vulnerable children throughout the state. The primary focus of the operation is the systematic tracing of missing children and the immediate rescue of those trapped in child and bonded labour.

Beyond rescue operations, the campaign is designed to ensure the long-term protection, rehabilitation, and social reintegration of the rescued children. To prevent continued abuse, teams will also focus on the identification of repeat offenders and employers who engage in child exploitation.

The campaign will rely heavily on the optimisation of roles across various specialised bodies. Key participating groups include special juvenile police units, anti-human trafficking units, and sub-divisional Operation Muskaan teams.

These police units will work in close coordination with district child protection officers, child welfare committees, and childcare institutions to manage the post-rescue process and secure the welfare of the children. This collaborative effort aims to streamline resources and ensure that no rescued child is left without proper care and rehabilitation support during the month-long drive.